8^th International Conference on Microbial Diversity
Microbial Diversity for Empowering the Ecological Transition: Research, Innovation, and Technological Transfer

OVERVIEW.
The 8th International Conference on Microbial Diversity represents a paramount gathering dedicated to advancing our understanding and application of microbial diversity in addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. The theme for the 8th edition "Microbial Diversity for Empowering the Ecological Transition: Research, Innovation, and Technological Transfer," underscores the pivotal role of microbes in fostering sustainable and resilient ecosystems. As we stand at the cusp of a new era marked by unprecedented ecological challenges, the importance of microbial diversity has never been more critical. Microbes are integral to numerous ecological processes, and their potential in driving the ecological transition is vast and varied. This conference will explore the multifaceted roles of microbes in food microbiology, agricultural microbiology, and environmental microbiology, providing a comprehensive platform for scientists, researchers, and industry experts to share their insights and innovations.

KEY TOPICS of the conference will include Food Microbiology (enhancing food safety and quality through microbial innovation; microbial contributions to food preservation and fermentation; probiotics and their role in human health and nutrition), Agricultural Microbiology (soil health and plant-microbe interactions; microbial solutions for sustainable agriculture and pest management; biocontrol agents and biofertilizers: Innovations and applications), and Environmental Microbiology (microbial ecology and its implications for environmental sustainability; bioremediation and the role of microbes in detoxifying polluted environments; microbial contributions to climate change mitigation and adaptation).

RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER.
The conference will delve into both fundamental and applied research, reflecting the continuum from basic scientific discoveries to practical applications. Key areas of focus will include Fundamental Research (exploring microbial diversity at the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels; understanding microbial interactions and their impact on ecological functions; advancements in microbiome research and its implications for ecosystem health), Applied Research (translating fundamental microbial research into innovative applications; case studies on successful microbial applications in agriculture and industry; development of microbial-based products and technologies), and Technological Transfer, the bridge between research and real-world application is critical for impactful ecological transitions. The conference will highlight Innovation and Entrepreneurship (pathways for commercializing microbial technologies; collaborative models between academia, industry, and government; strategies for scaling up microbial innovations for broader impact).

KEY TOPICS FOR THE ECOLOGICAL TRANSITION.
The conference will also focus on broader themes that intersect with microbial diversity:

• Next Green Revolution (harnessing microbial technologies to drive agricultural productivity and sustainability; innovations in microbial breeding and genetic engineering for enhanced crop resilience)
• One Health (integrating microbial research to promote human, animal, and environmental health; addressing antimicrobial resistance through a One Health approach)
• Food Systems (enhancing food security and nutrition through microbial interventions; sustainable food production; role of microbes in alternative food sources)
• Environmental Sustainability (leveraging microbial processes for waste management and resource recovery; microbial contributions to sustainable water and soil management practices)
• Circular Economy (exploiting microbial bioconversion to valorise waste products, developing microbial-based processes for sustainable industrial production)